Got Cancer?

[ICEMAN]

Got Cancer? I do.

You may have noticed that I have not been around quite as much lately....

I will try to make this short.

On November 12th, I had my left hip replaced. Then, three weeks later on December 3rd I had my right hip replaced. Full replacements, all metal hips.... Things were going great. I had been having some issues swallowing certain foods since September. It got progressively worse through the winter. By January, my doctor had me on an antacid similar to prilosec. It did not help. Doctor thought I was experiencing GERD, major acid reflux issues. I then went in for a gastroentrology consult, then was scoped (endoscopy) on February 2nd. The doctor immediately let us know that I had cancer. Esophageal cancer, possibly the result of prolonged acid reflux. I would not have considered myself as suffering from acid reflux but only occasionally, only when I ate too close to bed time...etc...

After further testing, I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. This is an ugly cancer that kills a lot of people.

I started Chemo and Radiation Therapy in March. 6 weeks of Chemo and 28 occasions of radiaton.

My body responded very very well to the treatment.

My last PET scan (radioactive isotope injected) revealed that my cancer was mostly gone/inactive. Just a slight bit of radioactivity at my cancer site, but on the other hand, I just had intensive radiation over the last month....

I am now scheduled for a complete removal of my esophagus to occur next Tuesday the 18th. They will re-position my stomache into a long tube, to replace the esophagus.  8-10hr operation on the table. 8-10 day hospital stay. Then many weeks recovery at home. Feeding tube for the long haul until many weeks later when I can finally injest enough calories to maintain body weight.

Recently, I can eat well. After treatment, I have done well. I have one week to get ready for surgery. My energy is coming back from Chemo. My hair has come back, alot different, but coming in...

My goal is to continue to show my kids how to beat cancer. I am positive, and vigorous. I do not kill easy.

What a life changer this road has been since February. My wife has been my rock. My kids my inspiration. I have continued to work and have not missed but a few days since diagnosis. I am about ready to be away from work for 6 plus weeks? Not exactly sure. I know I will want to get back as soon as I can....

I will try to check in here as often as I can. I do so enjoy this place and my friends here.

Not really sure why I am posting this. We all love attention, but I feel like I owe an explanation for not being around and participating so much lately. I know...stupid...

Anyway, If any of you guys or gals have GERD, or swallowing issues, get it checked out. Treat it seriously.

[DoubleJ]

Holy *censored*!!!!!  excuse the censor.  I know we haven't gotten along sometimes but damnit, get through this and come out on the other side.  Please.

[1bugman]

Good luck and Stay strong

[dscubame]

Sorry to hear this.  My best to your fight.

[Skillet]

Godspeed,  Iceman.  You have a great attitude - you'll lick this.

[jyerxa]

Ice! I lived your every descriptive word of my dads bout with cancer! Every thing! I so pray for you my friend. 

[bucklucky]

Man Iceman, I dont know what to say but stay strong and beat this man.

[3nails]

Boy I bet you've narrowed down what's really important to you. I will pray for you.

[Jingles]

Sounds like you are a lot younger than I am with the kids statement and issue  So gonna wish you Good luck with the surgery and recovery it is gonna be a long hard pull but you can do it with the attitude you expressed here.  Prayers are with you.

[Bean Counter]

Way to soldier on, Iceman. Thanks for sharing your story with us. God bless.

Anyway, If any of you guys or gals have GERD, or swallowing issues, get it checked out. Treat it seriously.

When I have waffles or pancakes in the morning, they often get stuck in my esophagus. Bad. Its scary.

I guess I need to go get checked out 

[X-Force]

Kick its fanny. HW will be thinking of you during the recoup.

[6haase6]

Stay strong and keep your chin up. You will beat this! Always hits home to see a fellow outdoorsmen struggle through something like this. Prayers go out to you.

[jackelope]

God bless you, bud. We're pulling for you here in Duvall. Head down, eye on the ball. There's significance to that statement on this end. I'll tell you about it some day.

[sumbeech66]

Keep being a fighter! and get well. 

[cem3434]

I'm glad to here that you doing well and beating this horrible disease. Keep up your positive attitude and I will pray for a speedy recovery for you.